I used to own VZN 160s, the model directly below the 220s, and they were always reliable. Unlike some other OTL amplifiers, daily use of the ruggedly built 160s gave me a sense of confidence that they would not cause problems.
Although my amps never required servicing I wanted Joule to thoroughly check them over prior to my selling them. In lieu of sending them to the east coast, Jud recommended I use Mark Gilmore located in Southern Cal for this service, or for any other work on my Joule amps. I was very pleased with Marks work & knowledge of these OTLs. Mark is a well known industry person, e.g., the designer of the Gilmore speakers and amplifiers. I don't know if Mark still does repairs. If so, he would be another avenue for service should service ever be required.
Additionally, Id expect that Nick Gowan, owner of True Sound in Campbell, CA could perform repairs on Joule-Electra gear. Nick worked on some non-Joule-Electra OTLs I owned; his skills at audio repairs are well known and he is a class act.
In dealing with many audio vendors for support of their products, some vendors were good, some terrible, some fabulous. My experience with Joule was in the fabulous category. They were always responsive, responsible, and very accommodating.
Regarding the 220 amps you mentioned. My 160s had the matching variacs which was an optional enhancement that increased the purchase price. Standard models came with a single variac that adjusted both amplifiers. Thus the 220s in question may have a little more value than standard 220s.
Although my amps never required servicing I wanted Joule to thoroughly check them over prior to my selling them. In lieu of sending them to the east coast, Jud recommended I use Mark Gilmore located in Southern Cal for this service, or for any other work on my Joule amps. I was very pleased with Marks work & knowledge of these OTLs. Mark is a well known industry person, e.g., the designer of the Gilmore speakers and amplifiers. I don't know if Mark still does repairs. If so, he would be another avenue for service should service ever be required.
Additionally, Id expect that Nick Gowan, owner of True Sound in Campbell, CA could perform repairs on Joule-Electra gear. Nick worked on some non-Joule-Electra OTLs I owned; his skills at audio repairs are well known and he is a class act.
In dealing with many audio vendors for support of their products, some vendors were good, some terrible, some fabulous. My experience with Joule was in the fabulous category. They were always responsive, responsible, and very accommodating.
Regarding the 220 amps you mentioned. My 160s had the matching variacs which was an optional enhancement that increased the purchase price. Standard models came with a single variac that adjusted both amplifiers. Thus the 220s in question may have a little more value than standard 220s.